How Many Days in Bhutan
Short answer: 7 days is ideal for a first visit. 4–5 days covers the highlights; 10–14 days lets you reach central Bhutan (Bumthang); treks need 6–29 days.
4–5 days: the highlights
Paro, Thimphu and the Tiger's Nest hike, with a night at The Happiness Farm.
→ Glimpse of Bhutan – 4 Days · Heart of Western Bhutan – 5 Days
7–8 days: the best first trip
Add Punakha Dzong, the Dochula Pass and the Phobjikha Valley (black-necked cranes in winter).
→ Discovering Western Bhutan – 8 Days · Bhutan Deep Dive – 8 Days
10–14 days: into the heart of Bhutan
Cross the mountains to Trongsa and Bumthang, the spiritual heartland.
→ Bhutan Mystical Traveller – 11 Days · Bumthang Cultural – 11 Days
16 days: the whole country
West to east, from Paro to Samdrup Jongkhar. → Nationwide Expedition – 16 Days
Trekking
Druk Path (6 days), Jomolhari (13 days), Snowman (29 days). → All Bhutan treks
Tips
- Plan your trip around a festival for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
- Spring (Mar–May) and autumn (Sep–Nov) are the best seasons. See the best time to visit Bhutan.
- Every day in Bhutan costs the same (USD 285/day all-inclusive), so length is your main budget lever. See Bhutan trip cost.
